Key Amonie identified as 1 killed in 3 overnight shootings in Utica

UTICA, New York – Utica Police are investigating a series of violent incidents that unfolded in the early morning hours of November 8, 2024, leaving one person dead and multiple others injured. Police responded to three separate shooting locations over the course of a few hours, raising concerns within the community and prompting a thorough investigation by law enforcement.

Around 12:30 a.m., Utica Police and Fire units were dispatched to a business on 822 South St. following a report of a shooting. Upon arrival, officers found a male victim suffering from a gunshot wound to his abdomen. Witnesses told investigators that a masked assailant had entered the establishment, shot the victim, and quickly fled the scene. The victim was transported to Wynn Hospital by Utica Fire Department (UFD) personnel, where he underwent emergency surgery. He remains in critical but stable condition.

While investigators were processing the scene on South St., another alert was received around 1:00 a.m. from Utica’s ShotSpotter system, indicating multiple gunshots on Faxton St. As officers arrived, they discovered two victims: a male with gunshot wounds to his back and a 19-year-old female, Key Amonie, who had sustained chest injuries. Emergency responders provided immediate care and transported both victims to Wynn Hospital. Despite the efforts of medical staff, Key Amonie tragically succumbed to her injuries, while the male victim remains in stable condition.

Utica Police extended their condolences to Amonie’s family, expressing sympathy for the young woman’s loss. The department also shared hope for the male victim’s recovery as investigations into the Faxton St. incident continue.

Later, at approximately 3:30 a.m., officers received a third ShotSpotter alert, this time from the 1500 block of Howard Ave, where multiple gunshots were reported. Upon arrival, officers found that several rounds had been fired into a residence, where occupants, including children, were asleep. Fortunately, no one in the home was injured. The Utica Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division and Major Crimes Unit are now working to determine if any connections exist among these three incidents.

Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward to assist in the investigations. Those with details are encouraged to contact the Utica Police Department at (315) 223-3510 or provide information anonymously through Mohawk Valley Crime Stoppers at www.mohawkvalleycrimestoppers.com, by calling 1-866-730-8477 (TIPS), or by using the P3 Tips mobile app.